Vaccination is an essential part of the preventative health care we offer at Blacks Vets. Young pets or those not recently vaccinated usually require a course of 2 injections after which an annual booster is required. In addition to the vaccination a full health check is carried out to allow developing problems to be detected as early as possible.
- Dogs are routinely vaccinated against parvo virus distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis and parainfluenza virus. We also advise clients to vaccinate against kennel cough especially if they do intend to kennel their dogs, take them to shows, training classes or places where they can expect to socialise with other dogs.
- Cats are vaccinated for flu, enteritis and leukaemia. A kennel cough vaccine is also available for cats. Rabbits are vaccinated against myxomatosis and VHD.
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines contain harmless (either weakened or dead) variants of the viruses and other infectious agents. When an animal is vaccinated the immune system in the body responds by generating a protective mechanism through the formation of antibodies.
If the animal then becomes exposed to the actual disease at a later date, those antibodies will prevent the disease from developing. The type of vaccines Blacks Vets we recommend will be based on your pet’s lifestyle, risk factors and current guidance. Modern vaccines give protection to multiple diseases with just one or two injections. It is important to remember though that vaccines don’t give lifelong immunity and that is why regular booster vaccinations are recommended. It is also an excellent opportunity for your pet to have a full health check. We send out reminders for all vaccinations; please contact us to book an appointment or explore more about vaccinations for your pet below.
Spread the cost of essential healthcare for your pet
Easy and free to join, Pet Health for Life provides year round cover for common, preventable conditions. The programme includes regular boosters, treatments and health checks giving owners peace of mind that their pet is receiving the best proactive health care, including vaccinations.
Depending on the disease that your pet is being vaccinated against, the period of time that they are protected will differ. Certain diseases, such as leptospirosis in dogs and flu in cats only carry around 12 months protection, which is why a yearly booster is recommended. Even though you pet might be being vaccinated every 12 months, it is not always against the same diseases – your vaccination card will show you which diseases they are getting boosters for each visit. Visiting us every 12 months for vaccinations also means your pet gets a full annual health check, which is equally important!
Does my pet need to be vaccinated if they live inside?
Although your pet may not go outside, it is still possible for diseases to be brought into the house. This could be via soil on a dirty boot or via other wildlife that could enter the home. Therefore, having full vaccination can provide the protection needed for all circumstances, meaning you don’t have to take the risk.
I have heard that vaccines are risky and to avoid them – is that true?
Any veterinary procedure that is performed can carry some sort of risk, however in the case of vaccinations, it is important to remember that for the majority of pets the benefits of being vaccinated greatly outweighs the risks. Vaccination reactions are rare and where they do occur, they are mostly short-term and mild. Reactions of this nature show that the vaccine is effectively stimulating the immune system.
The team at Blacks Vets are always happy to talk to you about the benefits and risks associated with vaccinating your pet to help identify the most suitable strategy as part of their wider preventative healthcare programme.
Are there any schemes/offers to help with covering the cost of my pets’ vaccinations?
Our Pet Health for Life Plan offers the best value way to vaccinate your pet to ensure they have the preventative health protection they need over the course of their lifetime. Being a member allows you the opportunity to spread the cost over 12 months whilst also receiving discounts on other services at Blacks Vets.
If you would like further information on vaccination programmes for your pet, or our Pet Health for Life Plan, please contact us.
